Courses
Foundations Courses
EDLT 500 Foundations of Teaching (3 units)
This course will examine the historical, social, and cultural foundations of American education as seen through a historical narrative with an emphasis on the diversity of contemporary schooling. Students will examine personal viewpoints and insights through the lens of Culturally Responsive Teaching and identify barriers to learning on a cultural level. Additionally, major philosophies of education, which have informed American education and how they affect schooling in a society of multiple cultures, will be explored. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
EDLT 501 Teaching and Learning (3 units)
This course examines the instructional design process. Students will examine educational theories related to the teaching and learning process and apply this theoretical knowledge to their lesson plans. Students will explore state content standards and learn how to design learning objectives and assessments that align. Student lesson plans will indicate proficiency in selecting and utilizing appropriate scaffolding and differentiation strategies and reflect elements of culturally responsive instruction. 10 hours of Fieldwork required.
EDLT 502 Teaching English Learners (3 units)
This course in teaching English Language Learners and diverse populations examines first- and second-language acquisition with an overview of aspects of linguistic theories as well as social and cultural factors influencing language acquisition.The course further explores theories, legal implications, and accountability factors related to language learning among both native and non-native speakers of English. Delivery of instruction school/district programs and services, assessment and accountability, and inclusionary practices for English language learners are emphases for this course. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
EDLT 503 Child Development and Inclusive Environments (3 units)
This course explores the characteristics of typical and atypical child and adolescent
development. Candidates will examine methods used to assist K-12 students in accessing
content such as technology, including assistive technology; UDL; and accommodations
and/or modifications to assessments and instruction. The course will dive into the
definitions of exceptionalities, the history of special education services to individuals
in the U.S., and family partnerships. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
Methods Courses
Once advancement to candidacy has been approved, candidates take the following classes (13 units) in the methods semester:
EDSP 507 Instructional Methods and Supports for MMSN (3 units)
Focuses on instructional strategies that promote equitable access to the state‑adopted core curriculum for diverse students with Mild to Moderate Support Needs in the least restrictive environment. Topics include high-leverage and evidence-based practices, standards-aligned instruction, differentiated and adapted instruction, the use of assistive and instructional technologies, asset-based pedagogies, and inclusive literacy-rich learning environments.
EDSP 517 Foundations in Teaching Performance Assessment (1 unit)
Provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary for successful completion of the Teaching Performance Assessment and Literacy Performance Assessment required for the Preliminary Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Support Needs and Extensive Support Needs. Emphasizes analysis of assessment handbooks, task requirements, rubric expectations, ethical practices, and the role of effective teacher feedback in supporting student learning.
EDSP 519 Assessment, Instruction and Development of IEP (3 units)
Examines diverse assessment practices, emphasizing planning and monitoring student progress effectively. Topics include utilizing varied assessment methods, developing individualized education plans aligned with student needs, adhering to special education law, engaging ethical decision-making, accurately interpreting assessment data, employing conflict resolution strategies during IEP meetings or other professional collaborations, and understanding historical and contemporary influences on the public education system.
EDSP 521 Literacy and Language in Diverse Classrooms (3 units)
Examines research-based instructional approaches to reading and language arts grounded in the science of reading and informed by inclusive and culturally responsive pedagogies that support all students in today’s classrooms, including English learners and students with disabilities and other learning needs. Topics include, but are not limited to, emergent and early literacy, foundational literacy skills, meaning-making, language development, effective communication, California Dyslexia Guidelines, assessing and monitoring literacy progress, and planning and implementing effective instruction and literacy interventions.
EDSP 534 Introduction to Clinical Practice in MMSN (3 units)
Provides supervised clinical practice in a university-approved culturally diverse school setting with opportunities to demonstrate expected teacher performance expectations and fulfill the requirements of the Mild-to-Moderate Support Needs Educational Specialist Credential Program.
Clinical Practice
Upon successful completion of the requirements of the methods semester, candidates take the following classes (14 units) in the clinical practice semester:
EDSP 525 Positive Behavior Supports and Collaboration (3 units)
Explores supportive, preventative, and proactive approaches and strategies for promoting positive social, emotional, and academic learning experiences for students with disabilities. Topics include the principles of applied behavior analysis, self-determination, quality of life, and person-centered planning, the process of conducting functional behavior assessments and creating positive behavior intervention plans by incorporating technology when appropriate, and the development of Individual Transition Plans in collaboration with all stakeholders, including students and families.
EDSP 527 Teaching Performance Assessment Support Seminar (2 units)
Provides structured guidance for candidates in the preparation and submission of the Teaching Performance Assessment and Literacy Performance Assessment required for the Preliminary Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Support Needs and Extensive Support Needs. Emphasizes reflective self-assessment, guided peer review, and collaborative feedback to strengthen the quality and coherence of performance assessment portfolios.
EDSP 529 Advanced Applications in Special Education (3 units)
Provides advanced knowledge and skills required of new education specialists. Topics include legal and ethical responsibilities, collaborative practice, high‑quality Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), standards‑aligned instruction, and inclusive learning environments that promote equitable access, meaningful participation, and positive academic, social-emotional, and self-determined outcomes for students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment.
EDSP 547 Final Clinical Practice in MMSN (6 units)
Provides a semester of full-time, supervised clinical practice in a university-approved culturally diverse school setting with opportunities to demonstrate expected teacher performance expectations and fulfill the requirements of the Mild-to-Moderate Support Needs Educational Specialist Credential Program.
Foundations Courses
EDLT 500 Foundations of Teaching (3 units)
This course will examine the historical, social, and cultural foundations of American education as seen through a historical narrative with an emphasis on the diversity of contemporary schooling. Students will examine personal viewpoints and insights through the lens of Culturally Responsive Teaching and identify barriers to learning on a cultural level. Additionally, major philosophies of education, which have informed American education and how they affect schooling in a society of multiple cultures, will be explored. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
EDLT 501 Teaching and Learning (3 units)
This course examines the instructional design process. Students will examine educational theories related to the teaching and learning process and apply this theoretical knowledge to their lesson plans. Students will explore state content standards and learn how to design learning objectives and assessments that align. Student lesson plans will indicate proficiency in selecting and utilizing appropriate scaffolding and differentiation strategies and reflect elements of culturally responsive instruction. 10 hours of Fieldwork required.
EDLT 502 Teaching English Learners (3 units)
This course in teaching English Language Learners and diverse populations examines first- and second-language acquisition with an overview of aspects of linguistic theories as well as social and cultural factors influencing language acquisition.The course further explores theories, legal implications, and accountability factors related to language learning among both native and non-native speakers of English. Delivery of instruction school/district programs and services, assessment and accountability, and inclusionary practices for English language learners are emphases for this course. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
EDLT 503 Child Development and Inclusive Environments (3 units)
This course explores the characteristics of typical and atypical child and adolescent development. Candidates will examine methods used to assist K-12 students in accessing content such as technology, including assistive technology; UDL; and accommodations and/or modifications to assessments and instruction. The course will dive into the definitions of exceptionalities, the history of special education services to individuals in the U.S., and family partnerships. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
Methods Courses
Once advancement to candidacy has been approved, candidates take the following classes (13 units) in the methods semester:
EDSP 509 Instructional Methods and Supports for ESN (3 units)
Focuses on instructional strategies that promote equitable access to the state‑adopted core curriculum for diverse students with Extensive Support Needs in the least restrictive environment. Topics include high-leverage and evidence-based practices, standards-aligned instruction, differentiated and adapted instruction, the use of assistive and instructional technologies, asset-based pedagogies, and inclusive literacy-rich learning environments.
EDSP 517 Foundations in Teaching Performance Assessment (1 unit)
Provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary for successful completion of the Teaching Performance Assessment and Literacy Performance Assessment required for the Preliminary Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Support Needs and Extensive Support Needs. Emphasizes analysis of assessment handbooks, task requirements, rubric expectations, ethical practices, and the role of effective teacher feedback in supporting student learning.
EDSP 519 Assessment, Instruction and Development of IEP (3 units)
Examines diverse assessment practices, emphasizing planning and monitoring student progress effectively. Topics include utilizing varied assessment methods, developing individualized education plans aligned with student needs, adhering to special education law, engaging ethical decision-making, accurately interpreting assessment data, employing conflict resolution strategies during IEP meetings or other professional collaborations, and understanding historical and contemporary influences on the public education system.
EDSP 521 Literacy and Language in Diverse Classrooms (3 units)
Examines research-based instructional approaches to reading and language arts grounded in the science of reading and informed by inclusive and culturally responsive pedagogies that support all students in today’s classrooms, including English learners and students with disabilities and other learning needs. Topics include, but are not limited to, emergent and early literacy, foundational literacy skills, meaning-making, language development, effective communication, California Dyslexia Guidelines, assessing and monitoring literacy progress, and planning and implementing effective instruction and literacy interventions.
EDSP 542 Introduction to Clinical Practice in ESN (3 units)
Provides supervised clinical practice in a university-approved culturally diverse California public school setting with opportunities to demonstrate expected teacher performance expectations and fulfill the requirements of the Extensive Support Needs Educational Specialist Credential Program. The course also provides seminars to support teacher candidates in preparing for the Education Specialist Teacher Performance Assessment and guidance and support to enrich field experiences.
Clinical Practice
Upon successful completion of the requirements of the methods semester, the candidates take the following classes (14 units) in the clinical practice semester:
EDSP 525 Positive Behavior Supports and Collaboration (3 units)
Explores supportive, preventative, and proactive approaches and strategies for promoting positive social, emotional, and academic learning experiences for students with disabilities. Topics include the principles of applied behavior analysis, self-determination, quality of life, and person-centered planning, the process of conducting functional behavior assessments and creating positive behavior intervention plans by incorporating technology when appropriate, and the development of Individual Transition Plans in collaboration with all stakeholders, including students and families.
EDSP 527 Teaching Performance Assessment Support Seminar (2 units)
Provides structured guidance for candidates in the preparation and submission of the Teaching Performance Assessment and Literacy Performance Assessment required for the Preliminary Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Support Needs and Extensive Support Needs. Emphasizes reflective self-assessment, guided peer review, and collaborative feedback to strengthen the quality and coherence of performance assessment portfolios.
EDSP 529 Advanced Applications in Special Education (3 units)
Provides advanced knowledge and skills required of new education specialists. Topics include legal and ethical responsibilities, collaborative practice, high‑quality Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), standards‑aligned instruction, and inclusive learning environments that promote equitable access, meaningful participation, and positive academic, social-emotional, and self-determined outcomes for students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment.
EDSP 551 Final Clinical Practice in ESN (6 units)
Provides a semester of full-time, supervised clinical practice in a university-approved culturally diverse school setting with opportunities to demonstrate expected teacher performance expectations and fulfill the requirements of the Extensive Support Needs Educational Specialist Credential Program.
Foundations Courses
EDLT 500 Foundations of Teaching (3 units)
This course will examine the historical, social, and cultural foundations of American education as seen through a historical narrative with an emphasis on the diversity of contemporary schooling. Students will examine personal viewpoints and insights through the lens of Culturally Responsive Teaching and identify barriers to learning on a cultural level. Additionally, major philosophies of education, which have informed American education and how they affect schooling in a society of multiple cultures, will be explored. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
EDLT 501 Teaching and Learning (3 units)
This course examines the instructional design process. Students will examine educational theories related to the teaching and learning process and apply this theoretical knowledge to their lesson plans. Students will explore state content standards and learn how to design learning objectives and assessments that align. Student lesson plans will indicate proficiency in selecting and utilizing appropriate scaffolding and differentiation strategies and reflect elements of culturally responsive instruction. 10 hours of Fieldwork required.
EDLT 502 Teaching English Learners (3 units)
This course in teaching English Language Learners and diverse populations examines first- and second-language acquisition with an overview of aspects of linguistic theories as well as social and cultural factors influencing language acquisition.The course further explores theories, legal implications, and accountability factors related to language learning among both native and non-native speakers of English. Delivery of instruction school/district programs and services, assessment and accountability, and inclusionary practices for English language learners are emphases for this course. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
EDLT 503 Child Development and Inclusive Environments (3 units)
This course explores the characteristics of typical and atypical child and adolescent development. Candidates will examine methods used to assist K-12 students in accessing content such as technology, including assistive technology; UDL; and accommodations and/or modifications to assessments and instruction. The course will dive into the definitions of exceptionalities, the history of special education services to individuals in the U.S., and family partnerships. 10 hours of fieldwork is required
Methods Courses
Once advancement to candidacy has been approved, candidates take the following classes (16 units) in the methods semester:
EDSP 507 Instructional Methods and Supports for MMSN (3 units)
Focuses on instructional strategies that promote equitable access to the state‑adopted core curriculum for diverse students with Mild to Moderate Support Needs in the least restrictive environment. Topics include high-leverage and evidence-based practices, standards-aligned instruction, differentiated and adapted instruction, the use of assistive and instructional technologies, asset-based pedagogies, and inclusive literacy-rich learning environments.
EDSP 517 Foundations in Teaching Performance Assessment (1 unit)
Provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary for successful completion of the Teaching Performance Assessment and Literacy Performance Assessment required for the Preliminary Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Support Needs and Extensive Support Needs. Emphasizes analysis of assessment handbooks, task requirements, rubric expectations, ethical practices, and the role of effective teacher feedback in supporting student learning.
EDSP 519 Assessment, Instruction and Development of IEP (3 units)
Examines diverse assessment practices, emphasizing planning and monitoring student progress effectively. Topics include utilizing varied assessment methods, developing individualized education plans aligned with student needs, adhering to special education law, engaging ethical decision-making, accurately interpreting assessment data, employing conflict resolution strategies during IEP meetings or other professional collaborations, and understanding historical and contemporary influences on the public education system.
EDSP 521 Literacy and Language in Diverse Classrooms (3 units)
Examines research-based instructional approaches to reading and language arts grounded in the science of reading and informed by inclusive and culturally responsive pedagogies that support all students in today’s classrooms, including English learners and students with disabilities and other learning needs. Topics include, but are not limited to, emergent and early literacy, foundational literacy skills, meaning-making, language development, effective communication, California Dyslexia Guidelines, assessing and monitoring literacy progress, and planning and implementing effective instruction and literacy interventions.
EDTP 522 Teaching I: Planning and Methods for Content Standards (3 units)
This course is a study of the content standards, learning goals and lesson planning strategies for mathematics and science education at the elementary school level. This course will provide an introduction to concept development, assessment and the meaningful application of mathematics and science learning in elementary classrooms. Additional focus will be on the integration of technology in the elementary curriculum. Consideration will be given to the cross-cultural and heterogeneous nature of California's student population.
EDSP 531 Introduction to Clinical Practice in MS & MMSN (6 units)
Clinical Practice
Upon successful completion of the requirements of the methods semester, the candidates take the following classes (14 units) in the clinical practice semester:
EDSP 525 Positive Behavior Supports and Collaboration (3 units)
Explores supportive, preventative, and proactive approaches and strategies for promoting positive social, emotional, and academic learning experiences for students with disabilities. Topics include the principles of applied behavior analysis, self-determination, quality of life, and person-centered planning, the process of conducting functional behavior assessments and creating positive behavior intervention plans by incorporating technology when appropriate, and the development of Individual Transition Plans in collaboration with all stakeholders, including students and families.
EDSP 527 Teaching Performance Assessment Support Seminar (2 units)
Provides structured guidance for candidates in the preparation and submission of the Teaching Performance Assessment and Literacy Performance Assessment required for the Preliminary Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Support Needs and Extensive Support Needs. Emphasizes reflective self-assessment, guided peer review, and collaborative feedback to strengthen the quality and coherence of performance assessment portfolios.
EDSP 529 Advanced Applications in Special Education (3 units)
Provides advanced knowledge and skills required of new education specialists. Topics include legal and ethical responsibilities, collaborative practice, high‑quality Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), standards‑aligned instruction, and inclusive learning environments that promote equitable access, meaningful participation, and positive academic, social-emotional, and self-determined outcomes for students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment. Provides the knowledge and skills required to design and implement effective evidence-based practices and diverse instructional strategies for students with Mild-to-Moderate Support Needs in educational settings. Topics include multicultural considerations, fostering culturally sensitive family partnerships and professional collaboration, promoting student self-advocacy, understanding the impact of disabilities, and utilizing assistive technology and accommodations to support diverse needs, including but not limited to mobility, movement, health, and safety.
EDSP 550 Final Clinical Practice in MS and MMSN (6 units)
Provides a semester of full-time, supervised clinical practice in a university-approved culturally diverse school setting with opportunities to demonstrate expected teacher performance expectations and requirements of the Dual Credential Program for the Preliminary Multiple-Subject and Educational Specialist in Mild-to-Moderate Support Needs Credentials.